Two weeks in Fabulous Thailand, the Land of Smiles

Thailand has long been a destination that welcomes everyone with a smile. Because of its Buddhist mores and culture, the kingdom has been a beacon for gay and lesbian travelers for decades. There’s an ingrained sense of acceptance and a welcoming attitude that transcends mere hospitality and manifests itself in the traditional greeting, the Sawasdee.

The moment a visitor arrives, they are greeted and accepted with genuine warmth. Gay and lesbian travelers can expect to discover a country that offers a wide range of great experiences while being treated with respect during their stay. From idyllic islands and breathtaking beaches to cities where ancient cultures and modern skyscrapers clash side by side, Thailand offers a palette of options for customizing into any vacation.

Day 1: Depart USA flying directly to Chiang Mai.

Day2: Cross the International dateline- Congratulations you are now officially a time traveler.

Day 3: CHIANG MAI – A city with a rich traditional heritage and a unique cultural foundation,where it’s possible to find centuries old chedis and temples next to modern shopping complexes and boutique hotels. Enjoy a short city tour and visit to Wat Prathat Doi Suthep, a large Buddhist temple on a mountain with sweeping views of the city. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 4: CHIANG MAI – Visit Tiger Kingdom for a once in a lifetime opportunity to pet and love on these amazingly docile big cats. Next, visit the Maesa Elephant camp where you can see these gentle giants playing soccer and creating unique works of art. You also have the chance to enjoy a quick ride on elephant back . On your return to the city, you’ll have the opportunity to shop for hand-made silk and umbrellas at authentic artisan cooperatives. As the sun sets, spend an evening at Chiang Mai’s famous night market. Overnight in Chiang Mai.

Day 5: CHIANG RAI – Depart for Chiang Rai. Thailand’s northernmost province, Chiang Rai is located within the renowned Golden Triangle region, where Myanmar, Laos and Thailand converge. Chiang
Rai is a travelers paradise endowed with abundant activities for nature-lovers, and the province shows evidence of past civilizations. Visit the Queen Sirikit Botanic Gardens, a veritable park oasis of flowers, trees, and gardens. Tour the infamous Opium Museum which curates the history and tragedy of the Opium trade. Overnight in Chiang Rai.

Day 7: PATTAYA– Fly to Bangkok and transfer to Pattaya in Chonburi Province. Chonburi, Bangkok’s nearest seaside town, holds abundant natural resources. The province offers beaches, local colors, traditions and fresh seafood. Don’t worry… You’ll be back in Bangkok before you know it! Enjoy an afternoon at the floating market before heading to the beach to grab some sun. Overnight in Pattaya.

Day 8: KOH CHANG – Depart for Koh Chang , Trat Province. Thailand’s easternmost province, Trat, borders Cambodia about 195 miles (315 km) from Bangkok. With over fifty offshore islands, long white, sandy beaches and unspoiled coral reefs, Trat offers delightful scenery and a tranquil hideout. Stop at a fruit farm along the way to enjoy some of Thailand’s amazing produce like dragon fruit, mangoes and the ever-controversial and famous durian fruit. Enjoy an evening on the beach and in the clubs at the island’s largest village. Watch fire dancers light up the night while enjoying the cool breezes from the Gulf of Thailand. Overnight in Koh Chang

Day9: KOH CHANG -Tour the Island of Chang. Your first stop is the Chang Bam Salak Khok Community. This tranquil community’s location is on a lagoon, a perfect refuge for fishing boats during the monsoon. The community lures visitors with its traditional fishing village built on stilts. For a more active day, add a visit to Ko Kut, the fourth largest island in Thailand, with attractions ranging from mountains to beautiful beaches and waterfalls. The perfect end to your day is a sunset boating experience through the mangroves. Overnight in Koh Chang

Day 11: BANGKOK – Transfer back to Bangkok. An afternoon arrival in this “City of Angels” gives you the perfect opportunity to relax. Consider going out for a night on the town and enjoying some of the local Thai cuisine or one of Thailand’s amazing cheap Thai massages. There are also dozen of gay or gay friendly bars, clubs, and discos to discover in the maze of streets that make up the city’s districts. Overnight Bangkok.

Day 12: BANGKOK – Sightseeing around Bangkok. Visit the capital’s major attractions including the
Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, and Temple of the Reclining Buddha. Take in the sights and sounds of this metropolitan city where old and new intertwine. Overnight in Bangkok.

Day13: BANGKOK – Sightseeing around Bangkok. Your day begins with a trip north to the Bang Pa-In or Royal Summer Palace. Visit the park-like setting with its lakes, pavilions and houses from a bygone era. Your next stop is the ancient city of Atyutthaya with its stone chedis and temple complexes. Ayutthaya is truly one of the most magical places in all of Thailand, and a UNESCO World Heritage list inscribed site. Cruise back to Bangkok on the Chao Phraya river. Gaze upon wonderful views of traditional river life that excite the senses. Your arrival back to the city at sunset brings this exciting day to a close as you drift by Bangkok’s skyline.